Marten Falls First Nations has opened its Cav-Tal Foods location in Thunder Bay.
The grand opening comes following the First Nation’s acquisition of Cav-Tal, which is a bulk food distributor.
“Food security is always an issue for our community and food sovereignty,” explained Chief Bruce Achneepineskum. “So it’s very significant that you know, we took steps to address that. Even our local community store is doing well.”
The acquisition included a 36,000-square-foot food distribution center, and all existing staff were retained.
“This acquisition marks an exciting step forward in our commitment to economic development, sustainability, and providing essential services to northern and remote communities,” added Achneepineskum. “By investing in businesses like Cav-Tal Foods LP and Bay Meats LP, we are creating long-term opportunities for our people and strengthening the economic foundation of our First Nation.”
As part of this expansion, Marten Falls has amalgamated Bay Meats LP into the Cav-Tal business.
This integration increases capacity, efficiency, and impact across the region.
“There was no way to address food security other than making those investments,” said Achneepineskum. “When we have the resources to make investments through our partnership with the agreements with the Government of Ontario, we were able to access funding to make these initial investments into the ventures.”
Alex Siciliano has also been announced as the new Chief Executive Officer of Cav-Tal.
The business is located at 701 Norah Crescent.
